The world of college basketball is stunned by Patrick Ngongba’s unexpected return to the Duke Blue Devils for his.

In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball world, Patrick Ngongba has announced that he will be returning to the Duke Blue Devils for his sophomore season, defying expectations and opting not to enter the 2025 NBA Draft. The announcement, made in a heartfelt statement on social media, has left fans, analysts, and rival coaches alike in disbelief, as Ngongba’s decision was widely anticipated to be a stepping stone to professional basketball.

For the Blue Devils, Ngongba’s return represents not just a significant boost to their already formidable roster, but also a message that the program is gearing up for another run at a national championship. The 6-foot-9 center from Dunn, North Carolina, has made an immediate impact since arriving at Duke, and his sophomore season promises to be even more electrifying as he builds on the skills and experiences of his freshman year.

Ngongba’s Impressive Freshman Season

Patrick Ngongba burst onto the scene in his freshman year, quickly becoming one of the most dominant forces in college basketball. He was a key contributor for the Blue Devils, providing a much-needed presence in the post and adding a versatile scoring option to an already loaded lineup. His numbers were nothing short of impressive: 12.5 points per game, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game.

Ngongba’s impressive ability to protect the rim and finish inside made him a fan favorite, but it was his incredible work ethic and leadership qualities that truly set him apart. He wasn’t just a physical presence on the court; he became a vocal leader in the locker room, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches alike.

“I’m so proud of Patrick,” said Coach Jon Scheyer, reflecting on Ngongba’s freshman campaign. “He’s worked incredibly hard to get where he is, and I know his development isn’t stopping here. He’s one of the most talented big men we’ve had in recent memory, and his commitment to continuing to improve speaks volumes about his character and determination.”

Despite facing challenges, including an intense competition for playing time on a stacked Duke roster, Ngongba’s consistency on both ends of the floor caught the attention of NBA scouts. By the midpoint of the season, many experts predicted that he would declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, thanks to his athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and unique blend of size and finesse. Yet, in an unexpected twist, he chose to forgo the draft and return to Duke for his sophomore season.

The Decision to Stay: A Shocking Yet Calculated Move

Ngongba’s decision to stay at Duke came as a surprise to most, as his physicality, skill set, and potential had made him a highly coveted prospect in the upcoming NBA Draft. In his announcement, Ngongba explained his decision with a message that resonated deeply with both Duke fans and basketball enthusiasts across the country.

“I’ve thought long and hard about what’s best for me and my development, both as a player and a person,” Ngongba wrote in a post shared on his social media channels. “While the NBA is a dream of mine, I’m not ready to leave college just yet. I want to continue growing, learning from the best coaches and players in the world, and competing for championships with my brothers at Duke. I believe my time here isn’t finished yet, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

His decision to stay at Duke also aligns with the Blue Devils’ long-term vision for building a championship-caliber team. With a loaded roster that includes Cooper Flagg, Mackenzie Mgbako, and several returning players, Ngongba’s return only strengthens Duke’s chances of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. While many top players leave early for the NBA, Ngongba’s maturity and dedication to his craft reflect a mindset that values growth over immediate reward.

The Impact on Duke’s Roster

Ngongba’s return is a game-changer for Coach Scheyer and the Blue Devils. As Duke looks to reclaim its spot atop college basketball, the presence of a sophomore Ngongba gives them a legitimate anchor in the middle of the court. His ability to defend, rebound, and score in the paint makes him a vital part of the Blue Devils’ championship aspirations.

But Ngongba is more than just a physical force—he has developed a reputation for his high basketball IQ, which helps him make smart decisions on both ends of the floor. While he is primarily known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, his improving offensive game, particularly his post moves and mid-range jumper, makes him a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways.

“I feel like I’ve grown a lot in my first year,” Ngongba said after announcing his return. “I learned a lot from my coaches, and I know there’s more I can do to help this team. We’ve got a lot of great players, and I’m excited to be a part of it. My goal is to take my game to the next level and do whatever it takes to help Duke win.”

A Championship Contender with Ngongba

The Blue Devils are poised to be one of the top teams in the country next season, and Ngongba’s return adds an essential piece to the puzzle. With the addition of Cooper Flagg and Mackenzie Mgbako, along with the return of Tyrese Proctor, Kyle Filipowski, and Jared McCain, Duke’s roster is stacked with talent. However, it’s Ngongba’s leadership in the post that could make all the difference in the team’s quest for another national championship.

Flagg’s arrival, in particular, will likely take some of the pressure off Ngongba, allowing him to focus on what he does best—defending the rim and dominating inside. While Flagg has been touted as one of the most exciting young players in the country, Ngongba’s experience and physicality in the paint will give Duke a dual threat in the frontcourt, something that will be crucial in the tough ACC and NCAA Tournament play.

“I think we’ve got something really special here,” Ngongba said. “I love the team chemistry, and we’re all hungry. We’ve got a lot of talent, but we know it’s going to take hard work, sacrifice, and a commitment to getting better every day. We’re all ready for that challenge.”

The NBA and Ngongba’s Future

While Ngongba’s return to Duke may seem like a surprising move in a world where many players jump to the NBA as soon as possible, it is actually a smart and calculated decision. The NBA Draft will always be there, but for a player like Ngongba, another year of college basketball could be the key to his development into a future lottery pick.

During his sophomore year, Ngongba will have the opportunity to refine his skills, improve his shooting, and continue his development as a leader. Another year of college basketball will allow him to showcase his full potential and improve his stock for the 2026 NBA Draft. His decision to stay may very well pay off in the long run, both in terms of his basketball development and his career trajectory.

As of now, many NBA scouts have noted that Ngongba’s combination of size, athleticism, and defensive capabilities makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the upcoming draft. A year of continued improvement at Duke, paired with his already impressive freshman campaign, could see him elevate to a top-tier pick.

“Patrick’s future is incredibly bright,” Coach Scheyer said. “He’s already one of the best big men in college basketball, and with another year under his belt, I have no doubt he’ll be ready for the next step when the time comes. For now, though, we’re focused on the task at hand—winning with Duke.”

Duke’s Championship Aspirations in 2025-2026

As Duke begins preparations for the 2025-2026 season, the return of Patrick Ngongba provides a massive boost to the team’s championship aspirations. With a roster full of talent and leadership, the Blue Devils are primed for a deep run in March Madness. Ngongba’s decision to return signals that Duke is not just playing for the future; they’re playing for immediate success.

“I’m all in for this season,” Ngongba concluded. “We’re not just going to show up—we’re going to compete, we’re going to fight, and we’re going to do whatever it takes to win.”

With Ngongba anchoring the defense and dominating in the paint, Duke’s 2025-2026 team has all the ingredients needed for another memorable season. And as the Blue Devils begin their journey toward the NCAA Tournament, one thing is certain: the world of college basketball will be watching closely to see just how far they can go with Patrick Ngongba leading the way.

Patrick Ngongba’s unexpected return to Duke is a momentous event for the program and for college basketball as a whole. His decision to stay another year in Durham reflects his commitment to his development and his belief in the Blue Devils’ potential to compete for a national title. With a stacked roster and Ngongba’s leadership, Duke is poised for greatness in the 2025-2026 season. And as Ngongba takes the court for his sophomore season, the world of college basketball will be watching closely to see how this rising star continues to evolve.